Swico Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct aims to show ICT providers in Switzerland which behaviours in the ICT sector are appropriate and acceptable—and which are not.

Given its broad representation across the sector, the association aims for the publication and discussion of the Code of Conduct to have an impact beyond its membership.

Integrity

We do not tolerate employees using unethical or unfair means to achieve their goals, even where such behaviour may be in the company’s (financial) interests. We design compensation systems to avoid creating implicit incentives for unethical behaviour wherever possible.

Managers who turn a blind eye to such cases or even encourage them will be sanctioned or removed as quickly as possible.

Dealing with customers

When acquiring customers, we avoid anything that puts potential customers or their decision-makers under pressure unrelated to the procurement of the product. When comparing competitors’ offers, we communicate truthfully and clearly, and never disparage them unnecessarily.

It often makes sense to invite prospective or existing customers to see our products in use, discuss specifications together or exchange relevant knowledge. On these occasions, we strictly limit the effort involved and any benefits for guests that are not necessary for business purposes to the minimum appropriate to the topic, participants and other circumstances.

Depending on the sector and context, gifts and invitations (e.g. sponsored events) are part of business culture and cannot always be avoided. Gifts are nevertheless kept to a minimum and, wherever possible, designed to benefit the company rather than the recipient personally.

Dealing with service providers

We work only with suppliers that meet business standards as high as our own. Before starting a collaboration, we make clear that unethical behaviour or lack of integrity will be grounds for immediately ending the business relationship. We set clear requirements for suppliers (e.g. on sustainability or fair working conditions) and monitor their conduct—also because customers and the public may hold us jointly responsible for their misconduct.

Dealing with employees

We are committed to sharing responsibility for our employees’ wellbeing. We structure processes to respect employees as professionals and individuals who take responsibility for themselves. We ensure that neither the company nor individual managers set goals that place excessive physical or psychological strain on employees. We are organised so that employees can quickly and easily request informal support with work-related problems.

Our company is organised so that all employees are treated fairly according to the same criteria, regardless of age, gender, origin, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or disability. This includes, in particular, equal opportunities for promotion and equal pay for work of equal value.

Where possible, employees should decide for themselves when and how to work, within the law, operational requirements and their roles. We offer flexible arrangements both in working hours (part-time, job sharing, etc.) and in how work is performed. We know this benefits not only employees but also the company, through a more capable and motivated workforce.

We recognise our responsibility to protect our employees’ safety and health. We therefore monitor occupational health and safety continuously and maintain high standards. We offer programmes to prevent accidents and protect health. Where necessary, we also take measures to prevent excessive demands on employees (constant availability, deadline pressure, stress).

We develop and promote emerging talent in the professional fields represented in our company. In particular, we offer apprenticeships and provide our trainees with above-average support. If our business model or structure makes this impossible, we participate in apprenticeship networks, offer trainee and internship positions, or place special emphasis on internal and external training.

The public and social responsibility

Whether a local SME or a multinational company, we act in every respect as a fair «corporate citizen» of Switzerland. We not only fulfil our legal obligations but also contribute to social development within our means. We provide information about the company’s development to an appropriate extent.

We recognise that many public and civil society services in Switzerland are provided by volunteers. We are therefore willing, within our means, to give our employees the flexibility they need to volunteer. As a company, we belong to the associations relevant to our sector and contribute to their work both substantively and personally.

Sustainability

As a company, we are committed to preserving and protecting the natural environment. Through process design and training, we encourage careful use of materials and energy. Wherever possible, we close material loops. We also ensure that all waste is disposed of properly, particularly as signatories to Swico Recycling where relevant to our activities.